A bin lorry driver has pleaded guilty to causing the death of a school girl by dangerous driving in a mini bus crash.

Nicholas Buck, (52), of Kingshurst Way, Kingshurst, entered the plea as his trial was due to start at Birmingham Crown Court today (Monday, October 8)

He had been accused of the death of 14 year old Holly Brown, who died when the minibus she was travelling in collided with a bin lorry.

The accident happened in Kingsbury Road, Castle Vale on July 7 2017.

Holly, who was a student at John Taylor High School at Barton-Under-Needwood, near Lichfield, was pronounced dead at the scene.

She was among a group of pupils and teachers travelling on the bus as part of an art trip.

Buck had a previous conviction for driving without due care and attention on July 29 2014, when he hit another driver's wing mirror.

Judge Avik Mukherjee said Buck had not served a custodial sentence before and that the court needed to know more about him.

He said "I am prepared to adjourn the case for a pre sentence report but you must be under no illusions. This is obviously a very serious offence and one that is bound to be met by a custodial sentence. I can not see any alternative other than a custodial sentence for this."

He said he was allowing Buck bail as an “act of mercy.”

James Dunstan, prosecuting, said two of those involved in the incident had been “deeply traumatised” and that they would be making victim impact statements.

In a tribute issued through police following the crash, Holly's parents and twin sister Emma said of her: "We are so proud of what you achieved.

(Image: Richard Vernalls/PA Wire)

"You grasped every opportunity that life presented to you, displaying so much passion, enthusiasm and determination in pursuit of your dreams.

"All this without forgetting to care about people, being there for others and having time for those that needed it.

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"We will miss you so much but you will always be in our thoughts, hearts and prayers.

"Love mum, dad and Emma xxx."

Holly was a talented ballet dancer and attended classes at Shobnall Community Centre four times a week.

The case has been adjourned until November 9 for a pre sentence report to be prepared.